For The Long Run: Exploring the Why Behind Running

Latest Episodes:

More Than a Race: UTMB Founders Michel and Catherine Poletti Discuss the Trail Running Boom Aug 22, 2025

Show notes

If you’ve ever considered running a global race series like UTMB, learn from the founders on why it’s so much more than a race.

Jon sits down with Michel and Catherine Poletti, the founders of the UTMB race series. They share their journey of starting and growing UTMB, along with essential business insights for organizing races. You won’t want to miss the philosophy that has been the foundation of their success.

Jon chats with Michel and Catherine about:

Early Challenges and Growth of UTMB
Expansion and Sustainability
The Global Trail Running Boom
Partnership with Ironman
Maintaining Control and Expanding Globally

Balancing Business and Community Values

Stay Connected:

Follow UTMB on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/utmbworldseries/?hl=en

UTMB’S Website:

https://utmb.world/

This episode is supported by:

Tailwind: Fueling shouldn’t be complicated. Tailwind offers all-in-one nutrition that’s easy to digest, gut-friendly, and made by athletes, for athletes. Use code FTLR20 for 20% off your first order here.
Alpenglow: Visit https://www.alpenglowsolarandservice.com/ to learn more about solar solutions and contact Colleen!
Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.

Eternal: Eternal is a performance health company for runners, endurance athletes, and anyone serious about their training. Their in-depth, two-hour physicals cover metabolic testing, mobility assessments, bloodwork, and a full movement analysis — all with expert guidance to keep you healthy and performing your best. Check them out at eternal.co and use code FTLR for 10% off your performance physical.

How Reid Burrows Prioritizes Mental Health as a Professional Trail Runner Aug 15, 2025

Show notes

What does it mean to TRULY be grateful for running and life?

Reid Burrows grew up in the small town of Grand Bay-Westfield, New Brunswick, Canada. His endurance background is in the sport of triathlon. Upon leaving the pursuit of triathlon and chasing the Olympic dream, he fell in love with the trails and haven’t looked back since. In February of 2022, Reid quit his full-time job to pursue his dream of becoming a full-time professional trail runner. By the end of 2022, he was picked up by Merrell with his first professional contract. Reid currently lives and trains out of Leadville, Colorado.

Jon chats with Reid about:

Reid's Journey to Leadville
Inspiration from Rob Krar
The Importance of Story-Driven Brands
Navigating Government and Contract Pressures
Living and Training at High Altitude

Stay connected:

Follow Reid on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/reidburrows/

This episode is supported by:

Shokz: This episode is supported by Shokz. They stay in place and you'll be safe and sound because they don't go in your ears. ⁠Use code FTLR for $10 off your purchase.
Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.
Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. Go to tifosioptics.com and use code “HAPPY35” at checkout to save 35% (only on 8/15/25 until midnight PT). Otherwise, you can use code “FTLR2025” to save 20% anytime. Alpenglow: Visit https://www.alpenglowsolarandservice.com/ to learn more about solar solutions and contact Colleen!

Nature is for Everyone - Breaking Trail Running Stereotypes with Vivek Gowri Aug 08, 2025

Show notes

Let's break down what is so special about trail running and why more people need to experience it.

Vivek Gowri is a Product Manager at NVIDIA, where he leads initiatives in gaming and AI hardware. When he’s not shaping the future of tech, he’s out on the trails as a dedicated runner and advocate for diversity in the outdoor space. He brings a thoughtful perspective to the intersection of technology, endurance sports, and inclusion — bridging innovation with impact on and off the trail.

Jon chats with Vivek about:

Trail Running and the November Project
Building a Diverse Running Community
Inclusivity and Accessibility in Trail Running
Investing in Running Businesses
The Intersection of Tech and Running
Trail Running Innovations and Events

Stay connected:

Vivek on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivekgowri/

This episode is supported by:

Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. Get 20% off when you use this link!

PUMA: Get your pair at your local Fleet Feet or your favorite local running shop!

Tailwind: Fueling shouldn’t be complicated. Tailwind offers all-in-one nutrition that’s easy to digest, gut-friendly, and made by athletes, for athletes. Use code FTLR20 for 20% off your first order here.

Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.

Eternal: Our newest partner and a company I'm also consulting for! Eternal is a performance health company for runners, endurance athletes, and anyone serious about their training. Their in-depth, two-hour physicals cover metabolic testing, mobility assessments, bloodwork, and a full movement analysis — all with expert guidance to keep you healthy and performing your best. Check them out at eternal.co and use code FTLR for 10% off your performance physical.

Laying the Foundation for Your Nutritional Health with Dietitian, Rachael Wade Aug 01, 2025

Show notes

Are you laying the right foundation for your nutritional health?

Rachael (Reddy) Wade is a runner, mom of two, and founder of Rx Nutrition. She ran for the University of Alabama, earned gold medals at the Pan American Games and USA Championships, and now helps others fuel for performance and life. As a registered dietitian with a doctoral degree in Public Health, Rachael specializes in sports nutrition, women’s health, and disordered eating. Whether she’s chasing her kids, counseling clients, or training for her next competition, Rachael is all about the long run — literally and figuratively.

Jon chats with Rachael about:

Transition to CrossFit and Hybrid Training
Research on Mental Health and Nutrition
Navigating Nutrition Advice
Women's Health and Disordered Eating
Balancing Life and Entrepreneurship

Stay connected:

Follow Rachael on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/rachaelwade_/

Rx Nutrition Website:

https://www.rxnutritioncounseling.com/

Rachael's business Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/rxnutritioncounseling/

This episode is supported by:

Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.

Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. Get 20% off when you use this link!

PUMA: Get your pair at your local Fleet Feet or your favorite local running shop!

Driving Decision-Making for Your Outdoor Trips with GOES Founder, Viktor Makarskyy Jul 25, 2025

Show notes

Are you actually prepared for your next outdoor adventure?

Viktor Makarskyy is the Cofounder and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of GOES Health where he is responsible for the product and engineering of their outdoor health platform. He is an avid runner living based in Los Angeles, where he’s currently training for a hilly marathon later this year in Japan. He checks the GOES app daily for real-time outdoor risks to help plan his runs, and GOES has helped him personally with everything from muscle cramps to impact injuries while running on trails.

Disclaimer: GOES is a sponsor of For The Long Run

Jon chats with Viktor about:

Viktor's Journey from Swimming to Running
The Essential Community and Structure that Running Provides
Focusing on Key Drivers to Achieve Your Goals
Pattern Recognition and Building Successful Habits
Enhancing Outdoor Safety with GOES Health

Stay connected:

Follow Viktor on Instagram:

instagram.com/viktorwrites

Viktor on LinkedIn:

linkedin.com/in/makarskyy

Check out GOES:

goes.health

This episode is supported by:

Shokz: This episode is supported by Shokz. They stay in place and you'll be safe and sound because they don't go in your ears. ⁠Use code FTLR for $10 off your purchase.

Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.

GOES: Need a trail companion that’s smarter than your average gear? Meet GOES—the essential outdoor app created by wilderness medicine doctors. Whether you're planning your next adventure or handling a backcountry emergency, GOES gives you expert medical guidance—even without cell service. Tap a body part, assess the risk, and get clear next steps. It’s like having a backcountry medic in your pocket—and it’s an absolute must-have in our kit. Use code 25FTLR30 for 30% off an annual GOES+ plan.

Scott Jurek on The Future of Ultras and Solutions to New Challenges Jul 18, 2025

Show notes

No matter where you’re at in your running journey, there’s a path for all of us.

Scott Jurek has been named one of the greatest runners of all time, claiming victories in nearly all of ultrarunning’s elite trail and road events. More than just a champion, Scott is a true student and ambassador of the sport, known to stay at finish lines cheering until the last runner crosses. When not racing, he donates his time to many non profit organizations and is an avid volunteer in the areas of environmental conservation, fitness and health.

Jon chats with Scott about:

The Philosophy of Endurance and Suffering
Adapting and Overcoming Injuries
The Future of Ultra Running Competitions
The Pressure of Year-Round Racing
The Allure of Western States
The Importance of Community and Inspiration

Stay connected:

Follow Scott on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/scottjurek/

Scott’s website:

https://www.scottjurek.com/

Scott’s book:

https://www.amazon.com/North-Finding-While-Running-Appalachian/dp/0316433799

This episode is supported by:

Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.

Alpenglow: Visit https://www.alpenglowsolarandservice.com/ to learn more about solar solutions and contact Colleen!

Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. Get 20% off when you use this link!

Emich Volkswagen : Visit https://www.emichvw.com/ before July 31, 2025 to lock in a great deal on a new EV!

Optimize Your Mental Performance with Kristen Schindler Jul 11, 2025

Show notes

Having doubts as a runner? Here’s how to reframe them.

Kristen Schindler is a mental performance consultant and endurance coach who helps athletes untangle their relationship with sport, self, and setbacks. She is currently completing her Master’s in Applied Sport and Performance Psychology at the University of Western States and working toward CMPC certification. Kristen’s work is grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Performance Coaching, Narrative Theory, and Cognitive-Behavioral principles with a belief that who we are in sport mirrors who we are in life. Drawing on over two decades of experience as both an elite trail runner and coach, she supports athletes in building resilience, values-based confidence, and sustainable performance. She works with individuals, teams, and organizations, helping them lean into discomfort, reframe failure, and write more honest, flexible stories about who they are both as athletes and humans.

Jon chats with Kristin about:

Kristen's running journey
mental performance and coaching
confidence and self-talk
defining your role in challenging times
empowering youth athletes

Stay connected:

Follow Kristen on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/kristenaschindler/

Follow Integrated Stride Coaching on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/integratedstridecoaching/

Integrated Stride Coaching website:

https://www.integratedstridecoaching.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaeT-s6wSPVAXaeeaDLGMl7LyTYiQnbeWlQVY1MXqbiS8-x7uqpFlpx0I1U6Qw_aem_1Q1vK1LbwnFXin6AEoaPEQ

This episode is supported by:

PUMA: Get your pair at your local Fleet Feet or your favorite local running shop!

Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.

Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. Get 20% off when you use this link!Visit Leadville: So you think you know Leadville? Lake County has so much more to offer year-round than just the 100 miler in the summer. If you’re thinking of getting away, highly recommend booking a trip to Leadville to get up into the mountains, eat yummy food, and play outside. Check out more of what Leadville has to offer here!

How to be a Change Maker with Race Director, Libby Jones Jul 04, 2025

Show notes

Want change in the way your races are organized? Then speak up about it!

Libby Jones is the owner and race director for The Active Joe, a race production company out of Dallas, Texas that focuses on the "average joes" out there getting active. She has directed running races for 17 years and currently produces trail and road running events 6 race days a year for The Active Joe. The company has a focus on affordable racing while providing opportunities to get active in a safe and inviting way for communities previously underrepresented in running.

Jon chats with Libby about:

● overcoming health challenges (Fibromyalgia)

● going from runner to race director

● diversity and inclusion in running

● efforts to include underrepresented groups

● challenges and progress in race directing

Follow Libby on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libbyruns/

Follow Active Joe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theactivejoe/

Active Joe’s website: https://www.theactivejoe.com/

Active Joe on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheActiveJoe/

Dinosaur Valley Endurance Run on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dinosaurvalley100/

This episode is supported by:

Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. Get 20% off when you use this link!

Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.

PUMA: Get your pair at your local Fleet Feet or your favorite local running shop!

Shokz: This episode is supported by Shokz. They stay in place and you'll be safe and sound because they don't go in your ears. ⁠Use code FTLR for $10 off your purchase.

Young, Fit, and Ready for the Pain Cave at Western States 100: Hans Troyer’s Journey Jun 27, 2025

Show notes

When your motto is “young and fit,” what does it look like to train for Western States?

Hans Troyer is a 25 year old pro ultrarunner who set the course record at the Bandera 100k in 2024 and who finished second at the 2025 Canyons 100k, earning him a Golden Ticket to the Western States 100.

Listen to hear about:

Discovering the trail scene and becoming a pro runner
The draw of the pain cave and suffering
Preparation for Western States 100
Hans’ fueling and nutrition strategies on and off the course
The brands Hans loves

Stay connected:

Hans on Instagram: instagram.com/hanstroyer
Hans on YouTube: youtube.com/@HansIsYoungAndFit
THE KID documentary: youtube.com/watch?v=ZZmeB4qub_U
Find Hans Troyer on Strava
For The Long Run Podcast on Instagram: instagram.com/forthelrpod
Jon Levitt on Instagram: instagram.com/jwlevitt
Join the For The Long Run email community: for-the-long-run.beehiiv.com

This episode is supported by:

Pillar: If you’re looking to step up your performance, check out PILLAR at TheFeed.com and use FTLR for 15% off your first purchase.
GOES: Need a trail companion that’s smarter than your average gear? Meet GOES—the essential outdoor app created by wilderness medicine doctors. Whether you're planning your next adventure or handling a backcountry emergency, GOES gives you expert medical guidance—even without cell service. Tap a body part, assess the risk, and get clear next steps. It’s like having a backcountry medic in your pocket—and it’s an absolute must-have in our kit. Use code 25FTLR30 for 30% off an annual GOES+ plan. GOES+ gives you access to the rewards program, plus much more additional medical content and our emergency assessment tool!
Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.
Visit Leadville: So you think you know Leadville? Lake County has so much more to offer year-round than just the 100 miler in the summer. If you’re thinking of getting away, highly recommend booking a trip to Leadville to get up into the mountains, eat yummy food, and play outside. Check out more of what Leadville has to offer here!

Crewing and Pacing 101 for Western States and Other Ultras with Amelia Boone & Alex Hildebrandt Jun 23, 2025

Show notes

This is a double-header episode hearing from two experienced pacers and crew members: Amelia Boone and Alex Hildebrandt. Both have experience successfully crewing and pacing elite athletes.

This episode was recorded in 2023, but is full of evergreen content!

In this episode we talk about:

-tips for assembling your perfect crew team, starting understanding your crew needs: logistics help, gear and nutrition, cheerleading, pacing, and more

-advice for crew members and things to discuss with your athlete, including logistics and crewing by bike

-dealing with DNFs, curveballs and different challenges faced by athletes and crew

-ultra pacing 101: pre race considerations, running etiquette, and real time responses

-navigating aid stations and race plans

Tune in to Episode 47 and Episode 97 to hear Amelia Boone’s previous appearances on the show.

Follow Amelia on Instagram @arboone11 and Alex @alex_hildebrandt and For The Long Run @forthelrpod

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/forthelongrun/support

Past guests on For The Long Run include: 177. Molly Seidel; 226. Mike "Kofuzi"; 228. Kara Goucher; 59. Shalane Flanagan; 234. Camille Herron; 198. Courtney Frerichs; 229. Jes Woods; 207. Tyler Andrews; 197. Dean Karnazes; 206. Katie Arnold; 220. CJ Albertson; 153. Joe Holder; 199. Kelly Roberts; 188. Gwen Jorgensen; 205. Emily Abbate; 209. Sara Vaughn; 174. Nick Bare; 97 Amelia Boone; 101. Courtney Dauwalter, 219. Dylan Bowman; 191. Matt Chittim; 200. David Roche; and more!

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